Thank you to Back Porch philosopher for bringing this to my attention.
Today was a big policy day for Julian Castro, as he announced in an exclusive from The Guardian today.
“Extending a hand of friendship, of opportunity to countries in our hemisphere – this approach is much more in keeping with our values,” he said. “This is a mutually beneficial way to engage Central Americans, not a slap in the face like the wall.”
And that says it all right there. The US has a long and checkered history in the region from the Monroe Doctrine through the disastrous War on Drugs that is currently being fought there. It is past time for the US to re evaluate its policy in the hemisphere. And to make that policy more humane, proactive, and rational.
For those unfamiliar with the original Marshall Plan, it was the basis for re investing in Europe as it dug itself out of the wreckage of WWII. The plan, named after Secretary of State George Marshall, was proposed by its namesake at a Harvard graduation ceremony in 1947. The idea was simple. Spend our resources to bolster our allies as a bulwark against the Soviet Union. Eighteen nations in total received US aid.
Castro again:
“Throughout our history the United States has benefited from having stronger relationships, including investments in Europe, that have kept us and the world safer and benefited us economically. I believe it’s time to look at Latin America in the same way.”
Make no mistake. This is a bold proposal, and it does need to be fleshed out, that outlines a new approach to international relations. Certainly it is a new approach to regional security and cooperation. But give him time to develop the concept. I’m sure it will be a rational proposal to a large problem.
And I think all of us here agree that the current President’s approach has been disastrous. And that his Wall money, along with a lot of other immigration resources, could be put to better uses. Why not invest in our safety the smart way? Castro also wants to re organize ICE in a major way. I’m pretty sure we all want that.
I would also like to point to the benefits of the investment in the hemisphere and our national security.
Castro again:
“There will be greater stability in this hemisphere, people will find safety and opportunity in their own countries so they won’t knock on the door of the United States, and as China and others strike out in Latin America it makes more sense for us to have stronger relationships.”
This makes a lot sense to me. Our future is brightest when global tensions are low. Economics as foreign policy is not a new concept. It is time to resurrect the practice.
Castro draws his inspiration the old fashioned way, family experience. His grandmother immigrated to the US in 1922 and was able to, as Castro says, “make a life”. Castro’s mother was a chicana activist in San Antonio who instilled a passion for politics in her twin sons. Joaquin Castro represents Texas in the US House of Representatives. Julian served as mayor of San Antonio before assuming a position at HUD under President Obama.
“I can understand the value of the immigrant experience and that we have become the nation that we are because people like my grandmother were able to make a life in this country,” he said.
He added: “Now we need their energy and contributions more than ever.”
I just wanted to highlight this interview for those who may not be familiar or are interested in learning more about Secretary Castro. Thanks for giving me your time and attention.